Permission to dream

Gardner (The Pursuit of Happyness), a philanthropist and CEO of the brokerage firm Gardner Rich & Co., shares how he has lived his dreams in this peppy work. Gardner frames his advice within a bus ride he takes with his granddaughter, during which he shares his own philosophies of success ("plans, like dreams, have to be adaptable, enough so that you can allow them to evolve as your circumstances change and your vision grows"), as well as those of such revered thinkers as Martin Luther King Jr. To that end, Gardner champions King's notion that dreams must be met with determination to achieve excellence and a commitment to justice. In his most prescriptive section, Gardner explores how "The Rep, the Rap, and the Rolodex" (one's reputation, ability to make easy small talk, and network of contacts) form the core of a successful life. In the end, Gardner's infectious optimism will encourage readers to think deeply about goals. These supportive affirmations for finding the confidence to dream big will appeal to readers who enjoy Paulo Coelho's work. (Apr.)

On a bitterly cold day in Chicago, businessman Gardner takes his granddaughter to a music shop to buy her the harmonica of her dreams. What might have been a simple errand becomes a transformative exploration of the power of dreams, which Gardner retells in this work of narrative nonfiction. In the tradition of oral storytelling, Gardner, along with co-author Rivas, easily weaves history, spirituality, and philosophy into biographical stories shared in conversation with his granddaughter. Believing in and pursuing his dreams helped the author survive a troubled childhood and inspired him to join the navy, which in turn led to a career in finance. Gardner's dreams also helped him get through a difficult period of single fatherhood while experiencing homelessness, as detailed in his previous best-selling work, The Pursuit of Happyness. By sharing his experiences with his granddaughter, he realizes what his own next step in life should be--to become a motivational speaker for young people--and is able to start to heal from the experience of his longtime partner's recent death. VERDICT This fable-like tale, which blends biography and self-help, is an inspirational reminder to dream big and dream often. Gardner's latest memoir will especially resonate with readers of Mitch Albom and Paulo Coelho.--Anitra Gates, Erie Cty. P.L., PA